Contents

Abstract

This report offers an overview of the literature on gender,
peacebuilding and statebuilding. It is part of a broader study
commissioned by the UK Department for International Development (DFID)
to review existing evidence, and to develop a practice-oriented
analytical framework to guide the more effective integration of a gender
perspective into peacebuilding and statebuilding efforts and programmes.
The report presents the findings from the first phase of the study, (i)
to assess the evidence on gender-sensitive approaches to peacebuilding
and statebuilding in order to achieve gender equality outcomes in
fragile and conflict-affected situations (FCAS) and on how such
approaches add value to peacebuilding and statebuilding processes; and
(ii) to identify knowledge gaps.

The report comprises five main sections. Section 1 provides an overview
of the extent to which the general international policy and academic
literature on peacebuilding and statebuilding incorporates gender issues
and develops gender-sensitive approaches. Section 2 examines the
literature on the experiences of women in FCAS. It looks specifically at
gender inequality, discrimination, changing gender roles and
responsibilities and gender-based violence (GBV). Section 3 reviews the
evidence on women’s political settlements and political voice in
peacebuilding and statebuilding processes, examining peace agreements
and first post-conflict constitutions; post-conflict governance,
focusing on first elections and political participation; and
transitional justice. Section 4 reviews the literature on
gender-responsive support to the building of core state functions and
services and responsive state action, focusing on justice and security,
basic service delivery and women’s economic empowerment. Section 5
provides analytical conclusions and a summary of key gaps in the
literature and recommends areas for further research.